Over $190K raised at Northwestern University's Dance Marathon for local charities

EVANSTON, Ill. - More than 600 students at Northwestern University danced all night Friday into Saturday morning, raising over $190,000 for charity.

The event, a decades-long tradition, began at 6 p.m. Friday and continued until 9 a.m. Saturday at Welsh-Ryan Arena.

What we know:

This year’s beneficiaries were Chicago HOPES for Kids, a nonprofit supporting children experiencing homelessness, and the Evanston Community Foundation (ECF), a long-time partner.

NUDM has raised over $23 million since its inception in 1975, supporting more than 45 organizations. Last year, the event raised $342,138 for Ronald McDonald House Charities and ECF.

This was the second time NUDM has been held at Welsh-Ryan Arena, with over 600 dancers and committee members participating this year. A total of $191,827 was raised for the event’s beneficiaries.

"We could not be prouder to raise $191,827 for our 2025 beneficiaries (Chicago HOPES for Kids) and the Evanston Community Foundation! After a year full of long meetings, countless fundraising events and endless amounts of passion, we know that NUDM 51 has made a difference. Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this journey, see you next year!!" organizers said. 

Why you should care:

Beyond the lights, music and costumes, NUDM has a deep impact in the community. The fundraiser connects student energy with organizations doing meaningful, local work — and helps build a sense of purpose and service among the student body.

Chicago HOPES for Kids is the only nonprofit in the city focused exclusively on supporting students experiencing homelessness. The organization offers literacy programs, homework help and enrichment activities across nine shelters and community sites in neighborhoods including Rogers Park, Uptown, Lakeview, Austin, Englewood, South Shore, Back of the Yards and South Chicago.

With the help of volunteers and AmeriCorps members, HOPES supported more than 730 students and families last year — and 55% of students in its programs saw reading improvement during their session.